Folklore, cowboys and a canvas of festivity

Inspired by Indian folklore, Durga idols and western cowboy comics, Kolkata-based artist Nandan Purkayastha in his latest solo exhibition titled ‘Festive Fantasy’ captures the beauty of festivities drawing memories from his childhood days.

The exhibition includes monochrome drawings and colourful paintings in which Goddess Durga is the prime figure. “I was born in Tinsukhia in Assam surrounded by folklore, and was extremely fond of reading western cowboy comics. In my works, you will see stories that have emerged from the East but the drawing style is inspired by the West. Durga Puja and Bihu were part of my childhood, so they always form part of my work.”

A graduate from the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Nandan’s works include a strong element of textile design. “My visual language reflects my background in textile design, especially the patterns that resemble the texture of fabric. It was during a six-month sabbatical at NIFT that I developed my style. I was exposed to design and line drawing in my foundation year, but during the break, I began experimenting with black and white in pen and ink,” points out Nandan.

His latest works feature bursts of colour amid a stark black-and-white painting. Talking about his style, he shares, “I use the rotring pen for my works as it helps me make intricate and detailed drawings. The works with Durga idols are filled with fantasy forms that border on and feed from the edge of reality. Flowing garments, unrealistic figures and fabulous line work complimented by outbursts of colour which all come together in the most satisfying compositions, like a dreamscape converted to the physical realm. I wanted to capture all the rituals and ceremonies attached to the Durga festival, while giving it a very contemporary treatment.”

Apart from his canvases filled with figures, he is also showing abstract works inspired by his travels to Spain and France. “I saw Picasso’s cubist works for the first time, but I wanted to create something that combined my fascination with colour with my own roots,” explains Nandan.